IOA Chief P.T. Usha Seeks Verification of Telangana Olympic Association Polls

Hyderabad: Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president Dr P.T. Usha has appealed to the Telangana government to facilitate the verification of the Telangana Olympic Association's (TOA) electoral college and electoral process.

In a letter dated August 17, 2026, addressed to the Special Chief Secretary of the Government of Telangana (Sports), Dr Usha urged urgent attention and necessary action, citing governance issues, stakeholder confidence, and athlete interests. The communication comes ahead of Telangana hosting the Khelo India Games this December.

Dr Usha noted that the IOA has regularly received complaints, reports, and objections from stakeholders regarding the TOA's governance and election procedures. She highlighted that the primary issues involve the composition of the electoral college, verification of constituent units, maintenance of membership records, eligibility of representatives, and the participation of affiliated associations. The ongoing disputes have resulted in competing claims and disrupted confidence within the state's sports ecosystem.

Clarifying the IOA's position, Dr Usha stated that the national body remains committed to the autonomy of State Olympic Associations and is not seeking state government intervention in the administration or management of the TOA. However, she affirmed that the interests of athletes and affiliated bodies require an organisation that is transparent, credible, and inclusive.

The IOA requested the Telangana government to extend facilitative support in accordance with the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, and the rules framed under it. This assistance is intended for verifying the electoral college and, if necessary, facilitating an independent and transparent election process.

Dr Usha added that all stakeholders are expected to maintain institutional decorum, act in good faith, and cooperate fully to ensure a democratic and broadly accepted governance structure for sports development in Telangana.